I know that choosing a photographer is a personal decision, so if you’d like to know more about my process for photographing families in Jacksonville Beach, read on!

But more importantly, let’s talk first about how your session won’t go…

It will not be stiff, awkward, and full of forced smiles you hold for so long your face starts to twitch. You also won’t be standing around wondering what to do with your hands or where to look. Your children certainly will not need to sit perfectly still and say cheese, because have you ever met a kid who will actually do that? Mine wouldn’t! And you definitely will not leave feeling like you just survived an uncomfortable hour-long obligation. I promise.

I’ve experienced all of the above during my own family photo sessions, and I don’t ever want that for you. Uncomfortable sessions make for uncomfortable-looking and mediocre photos, plain and simple. And someone who has always felt more confident behind the camera instead of in front of it, I really appreciate a lot of direction while I’m being photographed, and I take all of this to heart when I’m photographing others.

So What Will it Be Like?

Your session will feel laid-back, easy, and fun. Whether we are at the beach or a local park, think of our time together more like hanging out than being photographed. More often than not, I will be directing you to not look at the camera anyway, which really does take so much pressure off. I’ll guide you when needed, but mostly I’m observing and photographing the real stuff in a candid style. I’ve gotten pretty good at reading the room and will adapt my prompts and poses to suit your family, whether it’s boisterous, reserved, or somewhere in between. I have my ways of drawing out the laughter with jokes and the sweet moments with the right questions.

I typically start the session off with a game or interactive prompt. For example, we might start with a walking pose or by playing Red Light Green Light, if you have younger children. Once we start having fun, and I can sense that everyone has loosened up and is feeling engaged, I will move into more traditional standing and sitting poses. I know kids have limited attention spans, so I work quickly to get great pictures of the whole family together, as well as different family member groupings (i.e. mom with kids, dad with kids, siblings together, etc.). I like to allow time toward the end of the session for kids to freely explore, whether we’re at the beach or a local park. They always find something cool to play with and this is when I get some of my favorite images in the final gallery. And if your kids need a break, a snack, or a moment to decompress, we’ll do just that and roll with it.

Ultimately, I try to create an environment where your family forgets they are being photographed, because that is when the truly photo-worthy moments happen. Once you let your guard down, you can start interacting in a way that is authentic, natural, and unique only to YOUR family. If that sounds like the kind of experience you’re looking for, I might just be your photographer 🙂

Frequently Asked Questions

What should we wear for Jacksonville Beach family photos?

Neutral tones, light layers, and soft textures photograph beautifully at the beach. After booking, I send a detailed style guide to help coordinate your outfits.

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How long does a full family photography session last?

Full sessions typically last 45–60 minutes. Mini sessions are shorter and are only offered seasonally.

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What if my kids don’t cooperate?

That’s completely normal. I plan for it. Some of the most meaningful images happen in the in-between moments.

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When is the best time for family photography in Jacksonville?

Sunset or sunrise provides the most flattering natural light, especially for Jacksonville Beach family sessions.